Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Begin by chopping the celery, carrots, and onion into small, uniform pieces. Mince the garlic cloves finely. This ensures even cooking and enhances the flavor distribution in the soup.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Turn on the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to a medium-sized pot. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped celery, garlic, carrots, and onions. Sauté the vegetables while stirring frequently for about 5-7 minutes, or until they begin to soften and become fragrant.
3. Add the Base Ingredients:
Add the 14 ounces of diced tomatoes to the pot, stirring them into the sautéed vegetables. This will deglaze the pot and add a rich tomato flavor.
4. Incorporate the Broth and Lentils:
Pour in the 7 cups of vegetable broth and add the 2 cups of lentils to the pot. Stir in the smoked paprika, ground coriander, and ground cumin, ensuring all the ingredients are well combined.
5. Bring to a Boil:
Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a boil. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This allows the lentils to cook thoroughly and absorb the flavors of the broth and spices.
6. Check for Doneness:
Simmer the soup until the lentils become tender and the texture thickens. This typically takes around 30-35 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
7. Blend for Creaminess:
For a creamier consistency, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, transfer a portion of the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and then return it to the pot. This step is optional but highly recommended for a luscious, creamy texture.
8. Add Spinach and Lemon Juice:
Stir in the 3 cups of baby spinach and the 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. The spinach will wilt quickly in the hot soup, adding a fresh, vibrant green color and a boost of nutrients. Season the soup with 1 teaspoon of salt, adjusting to taste.
9. Final Adjustments:
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, lemon juice, or spices to suit your preferences.
10. Serve the Soup: – Ladle the soup into bowls and serve it hot. Garnish with additional fresh spinach if desired for a burst of color and freshness.
Notes:
Garnishing: Use additional fresh spinach for garnishing to add a fresh, vibrant look to the soup.
Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Freezing: This soup freezes well. Cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use kale instead of spinach?
Yes, kale can be used instead of spinach. If you choose to use kale, cook it for an additional 15 minutes or until it becomes tender.
2. Can I adjust the consistency of the soup?
Yes, you can adjust the consistency by adding more water or vegetable broth if you prefer a thinner soup. Conversely, simmer the soup longer to thicken it if desired.
3. What type of lentils should I use?
A mix of dry lentils, including green, black, and brown, works well for this recipe. Whole lentils take longer to cook than split lentils, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Serving Ideas:
Serve the soup in deep bowls, garnished with fresh chopped spinach for added color and texture.
Pair the soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Top the soup with a dollop of vegan yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 250
Total Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 14g
Dietary Fiber: 16g
Total Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 700mg
Sugars: 6g
Vitamin A: 120% DV
Vitamin C: 40% DV
Calcium: 10% DV
Iron: 25% DV
Tips:
Cooking Lentils: Ensure the lentils are fully cooked and tender before blending or serving. Undercooked lentils can be hard and unpleasant to eat.
Blending: For a smoother consistency, blend the soup in batches. Be careful when blending hot liquids to avoid splattering.
Flavor Enhancements: Add a bay leaf or a splash of vinegar for an extra layer of flavor.
This Hearty Lentil and Spinach Soup is a delicious, nutritious option for any meal. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner or a healthy lunch, this soup delivers on flavor and nourishment. Enjoy the blend of spices, fresh vegetables, and hearty lentils in every bowl!
